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Vocation Discernment

“Those who let themselves be seized by this love cannot help but abandon everything to follow him” (Pope John Paul II).

As a young woman Saint Jeanne Jugan felt herself seized by Divine Love. She realized that God had a plan for her, and yet for many years she had no idea where he was leading her. She confided to her mother, “God wants me for himself. He is keeping me for a work which is not yet founded.” Years went by before Jeanne saw the unfolding of God’s plan.

If she were here today, Jeanne would offer this advice to anyone discerning their vocation:

Pray often, asking God to reveal his will and to help you know yourself better.

Find a church or chapel that has Eucharistic adoration and set aside time each week for silent adoration.

Live a sacramental life: attend daily Mass whenever possible and take advantage of the sacrament of Reconciliation.

Set aside time to read Scripture and other good spiritual books such as the lives of the saints, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, classics of the spiritual life, etc.

Seek the guidance of a spiritual director who has a good understanding of the consecrated life, or of a religious sister.

Attend retreats or days of prayer, especially in a religious community.

Visit a religious community.

Commit yourself to some form of volunteer service to God’s people, especially the poor.

Choose to spend time with friends who are also serious about their faith, and who will support your desire to grow spiritually.

Click here if you would like to speak to a Little Sister about your discernment and/or our community.

“Dear young friends: only Jesus knows what ‘definite service’ he has in mind for you. Be open to his voice resounding in the depths of your heart: even now his heart is speaking to your heart. ... Ask him for the generosity to say ‘yes!’ Do not be afraid to give yourself totally to Jesus. He will give you the grace you need to fulfill your vocation.”